The Siren Call of Monaco’s Western Port Attracts Visitors to its two Splendid Oases of Pleasure

In Monaco, there is so much fascinating movement. You turn your eyes away for a month or two and suddenly a whole area is transformed. And this goes too for relatively new areas like parts of Fontvieille which seems to have been reclaimed from the sea only yesterday – even as Portier Cove next to Larvotto is newly carved out of the Mediterranean.

Fontvieille in Monaco touches on Cap d’Ail, but around the border, everything melds in harmony and you just feel the Mediterranean bliss, the beaches and the flair of Monaco. It is here that a transformation has taken place at the Marriott which is located, like the Columbus Hotel within close reach of the helicopter park, the circus, the stadium, and the beautiful rosary garden. Not to mention it is not too many minutes’ walk to the Prince’s Palace. The Marriott projects the reflection of its new face on the peaceful waters of the port of Cap d’Ail. It is a magical place, just this year totally renovated and positioned as an oasis of tranquility a few waves from the Principality.

Discover Bolinas there which is a new concept restaurant where you can live all day, peacefully enjoying the vibes and relaxation of the hippie village to which it borrows the name. An ideal setting to savour the authentic cuisine of Chef Julien Perrier or remake the world over a drink. And a swimming pool and green oasis are born in the Hotel with its palm trees, cabins and a new terrace along the marina dock.

After all that sun and enjoyment, for those who want to also add a dose of healthy exercise still with dolce vita and riviera ambiance, there is a fitness center overlooking the marina with its luxurious mega-yachts, signatures to the ultimate high-life.

171 beautiful rooms and 15 luxurious suites with balconies overlooking the harbour, the beach and the Mediterranean Sea. Rooms are decorated in a yachting spirit, a blond parquet floor, soft and clear colours, furniture with clean design. The visuals of boats “Riva” are evocative of strolls at sea between Monte Carlo, San Remo or Cinque Terre.

The redesigned Riviera Marriott Hotel is themed as an escape to an urban paradise, a wave of sunshine guaranteed on your plate, an energizing, chic and laid-back venue just a few stones’ throws from Monaco.

Columbus Hotel

Of course, if a stone’s throw is too far, your choice for the same glorious experience is the Columbus Hotel, located definitively in Monaco in Fontvieille with all its attractions and next to the beautiful rosary park. Peace and quiet all around and a good selection of restaurants in the nearest port.

Also entirely renovated in 2018 and offering a seasonal outdoor swimming pool with a sun deck lined with palm trees. Hôtel Columbus Monte Carlo overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, the Princess Grace Rose garden and the mountains.

And after its latest renovation the Columbus has increased its accommodation capacity with now a dozen apartments and a penthouse on the roof, designed to be rented all year long. This is a unique offering for Fontvieille and offers clients an alternative to renting an apartment. Three of the apartments have already been snapped up and Scandinavian and Middle Eastern buyers are reportedly showing keen interest.

A Penthouse at the Pinnacle

It is on the roof that lies the diamond offering. It is a singular penthouse in a dominant position with a view encompassing the Rock on one side and the Dog’s Head on the other. It is a warm welcoming apartment with a teak terrace. The kitchen even has a view of the Oceanographic Museum. Included are two bedrooms with marble bathrooms. And there is a second terrace, at the rear of the apartment, with a garden and a small refreshing pool for those hot Summer days. The whole measures 110 square meters inside and boasts an additional 120 square meters of outdoor space. It is reportedly offered for rent at 35,000 euros per month – just waiting for a celebrity athlete or footballer who would like to fall out of bed in the morning ready to train at Stade Louis II.

There are charming studios and duplexes too, some with bay windows with views on the rose garden Princess Grace. Imagine premium hotel services as an option plus there is included cleaning twice a week, valet and concierge services. Perfect also for those who are interested in the possibility of domiciliation in the Principality.